Buzz
After over 15 years of tinkering with self-assembled desktop computers, I decided to opt for the Mac mini M1 for its need for stability, reliability, and suitability for current needs. Looking back after nearly 2 years of use, I find this choice to be entirely accurate.Introduction to the Mac mini M1 I purchased
My needs aren't too high (specifics will be explained below), and finances aren't abundant, so I opted for the base model of the Mac mini M1. The specifications and prices are summarized as follows:- Chip: Apple M1 (8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine)
- RAM: 8 GB unified
- Storage: 256 GB
- Purchase price: 16,870,000 VND.
Basic review indicates that the machine is compact, beautiful, about the size of a thick book, operates smoothly and quietly, consumes little power. I can easily pack it into my bag and take it to work when needed. Normally placed on my home office desk, I've never heard it make any noise. It runs silently, so I haven't turned it off, except when leaving home for 3-4 days or more.Reasons behind my choice of Mac mini M1
As mentioned earlier, I am someone who spends quite a long time using desktop computers (while also using a laptop for other tasks, which is not further discussed within the scope of this article). Starting with my first desktop in 2007, I began tinkering, installing, uninstalling various software, followed by modifications and component upgrades.😁- iOS Programming
- Stability Level
The Mac mini fits that need perfectly. In nearly 2 years, I've hardly encountered any app freezes (or if I did, they were so rare I don't remember). There was only one incident with Word not saving properly. It seems to be an issue with Office 365, which was later fixed through an update.
Stability is demonstrated simply by its compactness, remaining stationary without any disturbances, and having low physical collision capabilities. When using a PC, I often accidentally kick its tower, sometimes even shutting it down :D- Safety, Security
- Synchronization Capability (and Benefits) of the Apple Ecosystem
- Affordability
Real-world Usage
I'm very satisfied with the Mac Mini M1. Although I initially had some difficulties transitioning from Windows to Mac, especially with tasks like copy-paste and file management. I was very surprised that there's no 'Delete' key to erase files, and files are opened using the 'Enter' key... But eventually, I got used to it!
Currently, I use the Mac mini to power 2 monitors, one is an LG 4K, 27-inch display, and the other is a Dell 2K, 24-inch display. Everything runs smoothly and seamlessly in daily usage. The spacious screen real estate allows me to easily arrange multiple application windows, making my tasks quicker and easier, especially when comparing content between 2 documents.
Since placing the computer on my desk, I've been able to leave it alone, without worrying about maintenance, temperature, or even upgrading components (as if that's even possible!). This alone saves me a ton of time for other daily tasks. Sometimes I remember the feeling of building a PC by hand, but at this point, work and life have higher priorities.Who is the Mac mini for?
I think it's for those with needs similar to mine: not gaming, not requiring overly powerful hardware for specific tasks; demanding stability, durability, reliability, perhaps needing iOS programming... then the Mac mini is the suitable choice. Certainly, depending on needs, one can opt for higher RAM (16 GB), 512 GB or 1 TB storage, or expand via an external hard drive (at one point, I plugged in a 5 TB external drive for watching movies).Drawbacks
Every type of computer, every product line has its own pros and cons. Personally, I don't have high demands and don't use many types of machines, so I'll just list what I feel are limitations when using the current Mac mini M1.
